There were a number of factors involved - namely I was lulled into complacency because this was "the good car" I never had any problems- or had to worry about it... since I never saw any oil leaking, and the temperature gauge needle never budged from complacency / and no warning from idiot lights.

Being a first-time Subaru owner I didn't know I was supposed to know that "All Subarus use/burn oil, you're supposed to check the oil more often than on other cars."

About a month and $3500 later, I heard a rumor that Subaru had acknowledged a flaw in regards to the above, and that owners were entitled to a recall refund...

Is this at all true?? Any help in this matter is greatly appreciated...

Have you tried calling Subaru of America and outlining your concerns to them. My hunch is that Subaru has not acknowledged it on a widespread level, but might be more willing to work on an individual basis.